Work and Rest

Open

Reflect

In 30:11-30, God commands a special scent to be blended for use only in the tabernacle. Why do you think He does so? What other senses does the tabernacle appeal to?

Look at 31:3 again. This is the first time in the Bible anyone is described as being “filled” with the Spirit of God. What other attributes does God give to the artisans? Which, if any, are unexpected?

Look again at 31:12-18. What does this section say is the purpose of observing Sabbath? Taking a day off work would require faith and trust that God would give them seven days worth of production in six days time. When their surrounding enemies were working on the Sabbath, Israel would be resting. What virtues would observing the Sabbath help the Jews to develop?

Apply

Should worship in the modern church engage the five senses to the degree that the tabernacle did? What are the risks and benefits of involving our senses in corporate worship?
Read Hebrews 4:9-10. With regard to the spiritual concept of Sabbath, what kinds of works does the person of faith rest from? How is trying to earn rest through works different from working as one who has already entered the rest of God through faith?

Close

What attribute of God did you see in this week’s passage that particularly struck you? How should it change the way you pray, think, speak or act this week?

Ideas for Family Discipleship

Time

Set aside a time this week for your family to read Exodus 31:12-18 together and discuss these questions.

// What sticks out to you in these verses? Why do you think the Lord takes Sabbath rest so seriously?

// On a scale of 1 – 10, where does your family rate at keeping the Sabbath?

// Is Sabbath rest the same as doing nothing? Why not?

// What are some ways you can practice Sabbath as a family this week?

Moments

Leverage opportunities in the course of everyday life this week to encourage one another in the Lord. Let your family see you resting in and considering the Lord instead of “getting stuff done.” Memorize and share with one another Hebrews 10:24, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.”